Cardijn Community Australia recently conducted its Loneliness Enquiry using the See, Judge, Act method. This approach allowed members to become more aware of isolation within their community and share their own experiences.
Observations and Reflections
In Bendigo, the excellent work of Eucharistic Ministers was highlighted. However, their special ministry and timetables sometimes prevent them from effectively addressing loneliness.
The group delved deeper into why loneliness seems prevalent in institutions. They questioned whether homes are designed to keep people apart and if retirement homes are places where individuals can become isolated without anyone noticing. They also pondered the policies, if any, regarding loneliness in such places.
Personal Stories and Community Efforts
Heather from Perth shared her positive experience of moving into a new group of units where she was warmly welcomed. She is excited about an upcoming trip to Sydney to meet her Congregation supervisor face-to-face. On the other hand, Greg is actively supporting his son’s soccer activities.
In Melbourne, members identified various loneliness situations, such as:
- People living alone (30% in the last census).
- Loss of licenses leading to isolation.
- Home delivery and auto checkouts reduce communication.
- Online gaming and excessive screen use cut human contact.
- Single-child families where the child feels isolated.
- Childless couples feel disconnected.
- Refugees without family links.
They advocated for Woolworths to recognise their social role in connecting people and challenged church communities to reach out to the isolated. They also supported the Hastings program, which connects 700 isolated individuals through knitting in retirement villages, and highlighted initiatives like the Templestowe-Doncaster Men’s group, parish library, monthly community lunches at Balnarring, and weekly gatherings at the bakery and pub.
Advocacy and Social Connections
Wayne continues to engage daily via Facebook with a diverse faith spectrum, advocating for change within church and secular groups for refugees and new arrivals through ecumenical partnerships.
A recent documentary on Japan’s ageing population revealed that isolated individuals were dying in their flats without being discovered for some time. In response, people formed teams to check on others and make social connections.
Members from Adelaide shared their pain after leaving the Young Christian Workers and university, where they had built significant friendships. George advocates for disabled individuals to participate in social occasions, while Mary builds friendships through morning teas at work, overcoming the building layout that divides people.
Cardijn Community Australia’s Loneliness Enquiry has shed light on the various facets of loneliness and the importance of community efforts in addressing this pervasive issue. Members are working towards a more connected and compassionate society by sharing personal stories and advocating for change.